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The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) of India organised a meeting of its Special Rapporteurs and Special Monitors in New Delhi. Chairing the meeting, Justice V. Ramasubramanian, Chairperson, NHRC, commended them for their commitment to societal welfare above personal interests. He underlined their critical role in reaching out to communities and ensuring that the benefits of development reach the common citizen.
Justice Ramasubramanian stated that these appointments were made through a strict, transparent selection process based on merit, domain expertise, and areas of interest. He noted that this approach ensures that subject-matter experts are aligned with relevant thematic areas, thereby strengthening the quality of monitoring, reporting, and advisory functions. Reiterating the Commission’s commitment to integrity, transparency, and public service, he urged the Special Rapporteurs and Special Monitors to function as the Commission’s “field soldiers”, focusing on small but meaningful corrective interventions. He emphasized that even helping a single family fulfills the very purpose of their appointment. Describing their role, he said they are not only the “eyes and ears” of the NHRC, but also its “heart and soul.”
NHRC Member Ms. Vijaya Bharati Sayani observed that appointment as a Special Rapporteur or Special Monitor carries not only authority but also a deep moral responsibility. Drawing from field-level observations, she highlighted several persistent concerns that continue to demand attention, including overcrowding, medical negligence, lack of gender and child sensitivity, delays in grievance redressal, and weak follow-up mechanisms. She stressed that reports should go beyond mere documentation and serve as effective instruments of accountability. Effective monitoring, she said, must lead to corrective action, institutional reforms, and measurable improvement in the conditions of vulnerable sections of society.
Earlier, in his opening address, NHRC Secretary General Shri Bharat Lal elaborated on the concept of Special Rapporteurs and Special Monitors and their role in the protection and promotion of human rights, particularly for the most vulnerable groups. He requested the newly appointed Rapporteurs and Monitors to prepare a collaborative action plan for the next six months, focusing on key human rights issues and relevant field visits. Emphasising their role, he described them as “guardians of conscience”, responsible for identifying acts of omission or commission. He noted that insights gathered during their visits would help the NHRC issue advisories and make policy recommendations to the government.
